Dortmund ace on brink of joining City

The paper reports: “City are expected to complete the signing of Ilkay Gundogan this week in a deal worth an initial £20.1million, despite injury ruling the Germany midfielder out of action until September.

“There had been some doubts over whether City would opt to conclude a transfer with Borussia Dortmund after the player suffered a dislocated knee cap earlier this month that will prevent him from playing at Euro 2016 and force him to miss the start of next season.”

However, incoming City boss Pep Guardiola is not deterred by Gundogan’s reasonably lengthy injury lay-off and is confident the midfielder will complete the move to the Etihad, despite interest from Barcelona and Juventus.

The report adds that the initial fee could rise depending on the German international’s success at the club.

At just 25, Gundogan has plenty to offer. He has been a key figure at Dortmund and his energetic, box-to-box game should be well suited to the Premier League.

He should still have his best years ahead of him, although City fans may be a bit concerned about his injury record.

Despite making his debut for his country back in 2011, Gundogan has only won 16 caps and was forced to miss Germany’s triumphant 2014 World Cup campaign after being sidelined for a year through injury.

With his latest setback, there is an element of risk in forking out in excess of £20m but there’s no doubt, if he can stay fit, Gundogan will be a great addition to a City side looking to return to the top of English football.